Boston cop union condemns DA Rachael Rollins’ ‘reckless’ rhetoric

The Boston patrolmen’s union is condemning DA Rachael Rollins’ “reckless” rhetoric after the county’s top law enforcer called cops “murderers” in a tweet.

Rollins isn’t backing down, though.

“Did I somehow miss BPPA’s letter denouncing the murder of George Floyd and calling for the immediate termination and prosecution of the 4 police that murdered him and/or watched and did nothing while he died? White fragility is real people,” the first-term district attorney tweeted Tuesday evening.

The union said an earlier tweet by Rollins over the weekend that stated, in part, that “we are being murdered at will by the police & their proxy” is “dangerous, divisive, and wholly unwarranted.”

The Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association said that type of speech can incite a crowd. And, the offending tweet remained pinned to the top of her Twitter feed Tuesday night.

“While you quickly and cavalierly label all police officers murderers, the fact is that BPD officers responded to violent attacks against them with courage and restraint,” the union wrote. “Instead of slandering our officers as murderers, you should be highlighting their professionalism and dedication to our City.”

Nine Boston police officers were transported to local hospitals following Sunday night’s violent protest in downtown. Dozens of additional officers were treated in the streets and 21 police cruisers were damaged — including one that was set on fire — and 53 suspects were arrested.

Rollins has joined those condemning the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police. Floyd’s death, now under investigation with one officer arrested, has triggered protests across the country.

The Boston police union said Rollins needs to tone it down.

“As the chief law enforcement officer in Suffolk County, it was utterly inappropriate for you to make a statement mocking violence. You saw our City on fire Sunday night. And, we know you saw BPD officers put their lives on the line to keep our City safe. Yet, you accuse us of “murder … with impunity” – that is disgraceful,” the union writes.

The letter is signed by union President Lawrence A. Calderone, Vice President Richard A. Withington, union Secretary James B. Moccia, Treasurer Sarah J. Briggs and legislative director James B. Kenneally.

Rollins said Tuesday night in a press release that she is not targeting all cops.

“I state unequivocally, my discontent is not with the overwhelming majority of police officers who serve our communities with dignity and pride, who are culturally competent and bring honor to the badge they wear,” she said. “No, my outrage is laser focused on the rogue few who believe that they can kill with impunity.”

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/2yV2Q4O